Advice to My Freshman-Self

This is Part 3 in a series of letters from college students to their freshman alter egos. (Here’s Part 2 on how to think epicas a freshman)Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your younger self about your college years?

Dear Freshman-Self,

You’re now out of high school, and it’s finally time to start college. You are packing up your stuff, moving out of state and preparing to go to college. What an amazing opportunity! You will meet new faces who will know nothing about you and nothing about who you have been. Do not be afraid to jump in head first and make new friends!

As far as classes go, your Spanish class will be A LOT easier than you expect. You will actually understand math for once, and you should really try to pay more attention in that earth science class. Also, PLEASE try to take it easy on yourself. College is a whole new ball game. You may have been able to pull off doing it all in high school, but do not stretch yourself too thin. It may seem like a great idea, but when you start to realize how much time school, work, and keeping up with a social life actually takes up, you may be shocked at the task you signed yourself up for. It all seems like a good idea in the beginning, but remember to make limits!

Believe it or not, you will meet some of the best friends you have ever had during your college years. It may seem hard to focus on school when you have these new and exciting friends, but it is possible to make time for both. Get yourself that planner that has been on your shopping list for the last few weeks and schedule time for you and for them. After you are late to a few shifts at work and have mini heart attacks over forgotten due dates, you will regret not buying that planner sooner

My Freshman-Self, Front and Center!

School will be great, but be prepared for some problems to come your way during your years. Choose your battles wisely and know that not every problem that comes up is earth shattering. You are much stronger than anything that a teacher, friend, or guy can throw at you.

One Response to Advice to My Freshman-Self

I think my advice to my freshman self would be to stay healthy at all costs, go to the gym more, skip the fraternity experience, get some rest now and then, and take a moment to process all the newness that you’re going through so you have at least a little perspective.